McDonald and Smith asked to step up their game

Manager Chris Hutchings has said that he wants Clayton McDonald and Manny Smith to improve this season and earn their shirts.

Hutchings, speaking to the Express and Star, said:' "We want to see them spending half an hour after training doing something extra, it depends how high you want to get in the game. They are coming along nicely.'

The duo are the only signed defenders for the 2010-2011 season as the club await Vincent and Hughes to sign their new 1 year contracts.

However, admits that giving the pair a chance came at a price, however adding: 'We`re trying to give them experience but by giving experience you sometimes have a shortfall.'

He concluded: 'It gives them confidence and belief to think 'yeah, I`ve got a chance to stay in the team."

Hutchings arguably took a risk with giving them a chance, despite admitting that they were not a reliable as they could have been at the end of last season. I hope the pair reward the boss and the fans and show that they are worthy of being in the starting eleven.